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Butter Chicken

A rich and creamy Indian dish made with tender chicken pieces and a luscious tomato-based sauce.
Prep Time30 minutes
Cook Time30 minutes
Total Time1 hour
Course: Main
Cuisine: Indian
Keyword: Easy
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

Chicken

  • 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs cut into bite-size pieces

Marinade

  • 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
  • 6 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh ginger peeled and minced
  • 2 teaspoons garam masala
  • ½ tablespoon salt
  • ½ tablespoon ground turmeric
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ancho chili powder

Sauce

  • 1 can crushed tomatoes optional, can use fresh tomatoes

Instructions

  • Step 1: Marinate the chicken by combining the chicken thighs with yogurt, garlic, ginger, 1 teaspoon of garam masala, salt, turmeric, cumin, and ancho chili powder in a mixing bowl. Stir until well-coated and let marinate for at least 30 minutes.
  • Step 2: In a skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add marinated chicken in batches and sear for 5-7 minutes until browned. Remove from skillet and set aside.
  • Step 3: In the same skillet, reduce heat and add remaining garlic, ginger, and garam masala. Sauté for 1-2 minutes, then add crushed tomatoes and stir well.
  • Step 4: Return the chicken to the skillet, stir to coat with sauce, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes until chicken is cooked through.
  • Step 5: Serve hot over basmati rice or with naan, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired.

Equipment

  • Mixing Bowl
  • Skillet

Notes

For best flavor, marinate chicken overnight. Adjust spice levels to taste.